Stage 1: Prologue in the Heat

Originally planned as an uphill time trial, the prologue was reworked into a flat time trial around Victoria Park due to fire risks with temperatures of 40–45°C. The squad put down solid efforts, testing themselves against the nation’s best. Matt finishing in 16th was our top result on the day.

Stage 2: High-Speed Criterium

The following evening, we faced a lightning-fast criterium on the same Victoria Park circuit. Averaging nearly 50 km/h, it was a showcase of aggression. Ryan, Matt, Brent, Josh and Alex covered every move, ensuring we were represented. But nothing was sticking with such high average speed and the sprinters teams set on a final bunch kick. Drama struck in the final lap - Brent was caught in a crash (which our Insta360 cameras captured), disrupting our plans. Ryan’s line was compromised, and Craig, on his wheel, couldn’t unleash his sprint. Lessons learnt for future sprints in the upcoming rounds. 

Stage 3: Road Race on a Race Circuit  

The final stage saw Matt animate the eventual winning breakaway in yet another scorching hot day reaching 40°C. Though cramps denied him a top result, his fearless presence up front was exactly the kind of racing we’re here to deliver. The other boys followed attacks up until the main breakaway of the day got away. Craig snagged KOM points, and while the final result slipped away, the race showed our intent. This stage, with Matthew’s aggressive ride, signaled exactly what RCA Bikesonline is all about and something we wanted to take into the next round at the Tour of Tasmania.